Period

:

Classical

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

Mason Jones was an American French horn player and conductor who was born on January 31, 1919, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was the son of a professional musician and began playing the French horn at the age of 12. Jones attended the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where he studied with Anton Horner and graduated in 1941. After graduation, Jones joined the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra as third horn. He then served in the United States Army during World War II, playing in the Army Band. After the war, Jones returned to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra as principal horn, a position he held until 1948. In 1948, Jones joined the Philadelphia Orchestra as principal horn, a position he held for 23 years. During his time with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Jones became known for his beautiful tone and technical skill. He was also known for his ability to blend with the other members of the orchestra, creating a seamless sound. Jones was a frequent soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, performing works such as Richard Strauss's Horn Concerto No. 1 and Mozart's Horn Concerto No. 4. He also performed as a soloist with other orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his work as a performer, Jones was also a respected conductor. He conducted the Philadelphia Orchestra on several occasions, including a performance of Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in 1962. He also conducted other orchestras, including the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra. Jones was a prolific recording artist, recording with the Philadelphia Orchestra and as a soloist. He recorded works such as Mozart's Horn Concertos, Richard Strauss's Horn Concerto No. 1, and Benjamin Britten's Serenade for Tenor, Horn, and Strings. Jones was the recipient of several awards and honors throughout his career. In 1963, he was awarded the Philadelphia Award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the city of Philadelphia. In 1970, he was awarded the French Legion of Honor for his contributions to French music. In 1977, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Jimmy Carter. Jones retired from the Philadelphia Orchestra in 1978 but continued to perform and conduct. He taught at the Curtis Institute of Music and the Peabody Institute of Music. He also served as the music director of the Kansas City Symphony Orchestra from 1986 to 1988. Mason Jones passed away on January 13, 2009, at the age of 89. He was remembered as a talented musician and conductor who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His legacy lives on through his recordings and the many musicians he taught and inspired throughout his career.

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